San Clemente, California, United States

Trestles Surf Guide

Also known as Lower Trestles

Trestles is a cobblestone point at San Onofre, California, famous for its high-performance, forgiving walls. Lower Trestles is one of the best performance waves in the mainland US and a regular contest venue.

Best conditions

Best swell directionW (270°)
Offshore windE (90°)
Swell exposureDirectional (headland shelter)
Break typePoint break
Best seasonSummer (SW swell) and winter (NW swell)
Skill levelIntermediate to advanced

Direction and exposure values come from SwellChaser’s calibrated forecast model. Always check a live forecast and local conditions before you paddle out.

About Trestles

Trestles offers long, playful, rippable waves over a cobblestone bottom, working on both summer south swells and winter NW swells thanks to its refracting setup. Its user-friendly power makes it a favourite for progressive surfing.

Access is via a walk or bike down to the beach, and the lineup is typically busy given the wave’s quality and consistency.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Trestles so popular?

Trestles combines high-performance, forgiving walls with year-round consistency, working on both summer south swells and winter north-west swells, which makes it ideal for progressive surfing and contests.

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